This was a proper day of Test cricket, which has been a rarity over the last two matches, with a Rahul Dravid masterclass making England dig deeper for their successes. However, his unbeaten 146 wasn't enough to save the follow-on and India still face a huge task to avoid the whitewash after closing on 129 for 3 although Sachin Tendulkar remained on 35. Graeme Swann made the early inroads, including the scalp of Dravid, during a superb spell on a pitch offering plenty of turn.

Dravid's unbeaten hundred, his third ton of the series, was a magnificent innings, contributing nearly half India's total (the first time they had reached 300 in the series) during six hours at the crease and 266 balls. He became the third India batsman to carry his bat, after Virender Sehwag and Sunil Gavaskar, and due to Gautam Gambhir's ongoing problems with concussion was back out 10 minutes later for the follow-on. When he took guard he had 448 runs for the series and India's next best was MS Dhoni with 217.

Smart stats

Rahul Dravid's century is his 35th in Tests and takes him to second on the list of Indian batsmen with the most Test centuries.

This is the second occasion that Dravid has scored three centuries in a series in England. Among overseas batsmen in England, only Don Bradman has scored three or more centuries in a series twice.

During his effort, Dravid also became the third Indian batsman to carry his bat through the innings. Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag have done so previously. Dravid is also the seventh batsman to carry his bat through in an innings at the end of which the team has followed-on.

Dravid's tally of six centuries in England is third on the list of visiting batsmen with the most centuries in England behind Bradman (11) and Steve Waugh (7).

The 87-run stand between Dravid and Amit Mishra is the sixth-highest seventh-wicket stand against England in Tests at The Oval. It is also the third-highest for India at the venue.

The 291-run deficit at the end of the second innings is the sixth-highest deficit margin for India in Tests against England (fielding first). They have lost on four of the five previous occasions when the deficit has been higher.

His second innings then included both sides of the review system. On 7 he was saved when it was clear there was no bat or glove when he had been given caught short leg off Swann. A run later he had a life when Matt Prior couldn't hold an edge, although it was signalled four byes which would have likely brought DRS into play again had the chance been held.

His eventual dismissal was an overturned decision as Steve Davis, the third umpire, decided there was conclusive evidence to suggest Rod Tucker could change his on-field not-out decision. Hot Spot didn't appear to show anything clear from the front angle, while the side-on view was obscured by Alastair Cook at short leg but Dravid later admitted to a thin edge.

The debate was still bubbling when Swann claimed his second, a wonderful piece of bowling when he drew Sehwag forward and bowled him through the gate. Sehwag, after three innings totalling eight balls, was unusually restrained against the quicks but eager to attack Swann. It was always fraught with danger with big turn from the footmarks which made for a fascinating contest that ultimately went Swann's way.

The battles continued against Tendulkar and VVS Laxman; batsmen brought up on turning pitches against an attacking spinner searching for wickets. England sensed further scalps and came close on a number of occasions. The scorebook will show that Laxman took three fours in a row off Swann, but one was inside edge past leg stump and another a glove that eluded leg slip. Then, on 20, he was dropped at first slip by Andrew Strauss off James Anderson, but six overs before the close he played down the wrong line to Anderson and lost his off stump.

Tendulkar survived - although not without a few scares including a potential stumping when England didn't appear to appeal with his foot in the air for a second - and that offers an enticing prospect for what is expected to be a near full house on the final day. In all probability he will need to secure his 100th hundred if India are to survive.

India had started the day on 103 for 5, but the second half of their innings proved harder to extract than the first. Dravid's progress to three figures during the morning wasn't without alarm as he offered England two chances to run him out. The closest came on 61, when there was confusion between him and Dhoni following a Ravi Bopara misfielded at cover, but Kevin Pietersen couldn't hit the stumps. Then Stuart Broad had a shy from mid-off when Dravid sprinted for his 99th run and had to dive.

A blow on the bottom hand from Bresnan caused Dravid pain, but two balls later he steered the same bowler towards third man to bring up his century from 168 deliveries. The most enthralling aspect of the innings was his contest with Swann, which went hands down to the batsman. Dravid had moved through the 90s with three boundaries off Swann; a rare slog-sweep, a late cut and a flick through midwicket. His ability to play late off the back foot continued to make it difficult for Swann to find the right length.

The one breakthrough of the morning went to Anderson, who was rewarded for some probing outswing when he found Dhoni's edge. Gambhir dropped further down the order, but Mishra provided Dravid with excellent support in a stand of 87 and showed more gumption that some of the top-order batsmen as he played sensibly with the occasional flourish, including a six off the last ball before lunch.

Mishra's resistance was ended when Ian Bell plucked out a diving catch at short square leg and Gambhir made his appearance at No. 9. He was dropped at short leg on 1, a tough chance to Cook off Swann, and didn't look comfortable during his stay, although he at least offered Dravid further support. Unsurprisingly, England's quicks peppered him with the short delivery, and it was an approach that paid off when Broad made one bounce with the new ball and found the edge to gully.

RP Singh proved an able replacement for Praveen Kumar's lower-order hitting, making a 23-ball 25 before he flapped Tim Bresnan to third slip and two balls later Sreesanth drove straight to mid-off. It was a poor piece of cricket from Sreesanth with Dravid still unbeaten, but then it isn't the first time India's stand-out performer had been let down in the series. On the final day India need someone else to save them.

@npadhy007 - Eventhough I dont want to comment anythin against you, (since I knw Dravid is the big WALL of India), jus for kind info, Yes.. Dravid performed well in 2003. But not won that match single handedly. He had a big hand in support in laxman and other small contributions in second Innings too.. Indeed it was Agarkar's magic which bowled Aus for less than 200 in second Innings which ultimately won us the match.. And then excuse me.. Did Dravid performed to his potential in the match we won in England in 2007.. I doubt it. (Hope u didnt say this jus coz he was captain) It was Sachin who topscored for India, ofcourse with support frm fellow Indians to win the match.. And again it was Zaheer who won us that match. I have always believed that its bowlers who win us TEST matches.. If you have other matches in list send me those too and you will get a reply why we won those matches..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:54 GMT

And there r few guys here making point that, Dravid kept wickets - Yes, because he is good at that.. And remember, he was not a regular in ODIs till 1999. And it was during that time, he made a stunning comeback to ODIs. And since we lacked a quality keeper-batsman, one of our batsman who is good in that was asked to. and he did that. Its totally upto him to accept it or not. While I agree that it was totally for a Team's cause, I too doubt that in '99 when he reappeared in ODIs, he had any chance/guts to refuse that..It the mistake of BCCI to not search for a WK, since they are comfortable wid Dravid. And as we all know Dravid as a man of soft words, he never questioned it. My point is if a man is doing wt he dont like, it always doesnt mean that he is doing for the sake of others.. He coould hv feared to complaint that too.. Rite.?? And he continued to do that till we found Dhoni.. Jus 4 humour/thought - Why he never practiced to bowl - jus coz he s not gud in that.. Simple..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:36 GMT

@attoAshok: While I agree with that making records will do nothing to Team's success. you have to accept that Team success will not depend on one man's success. Thats wt I want to point out here. U have to agree to that now since DRAVID has failed to do that since he lacked support frm his fellow Teammates. On a assumption that you have finally realized that it is TEAM sport, lemme tell you mate.. Sachin was a make shift opener.. He was made to open jus as an experiment and it clicked.. Again for team's sake he was asked to come down which he did for many seasons. Not only on 2002, but on 1999 WC and latter 2006/07 till '07 WC.. And he was not successful on either occasions.. Of course he scored few centuries. but not as successful as he was in opening slot.. You hail them as match winning innings because he was in middle order then.. Understand mate.. A century frm opener hardly recognized as Match winning one, since he wont be there to finish the match off.. But, still it mean lot..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:22 GMT

100 @ Nagpur against SA - It is Steyn's match. And it should be his.
111* @ Centurion - India couldnt survive the first day on a lively pitch which latter turned out to flat..
Well, I really dont see any fault on Sachin's part on getting those centuries. Only reason could be either other batsmen didnt give enough support. Or the opp played brilliantly. Ofcourse, there might be some infamous TESTs too.. I know/played cricket @ some level and believe me.. No run can be termed as useless. And that too in Test cricket. NOWAYYYYYY..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:19 GMT

177 @ b'lore against Aus - It was scored in 207 balls.. Indians scored 424 to take lead of 24 runs. In second Innings, all Indians except Sidhu and Sachin failed to reach 30 runs mark. Result - Lost by a superb century by Taylor.
113 @ Wellington - One of the best second Innings century I ever know. Yet, Mcmillan and Cairns brilliance took the game away.
136 @ chenni against Pak - Does any1 have any second thought on this innings
116 @ melbourne in the disastrous tour of Aus'99. In the second innings he scored 52. yet couldnt save the match.
155 @ Bloemfontein - Well. Not really Indians fault to loose this match. This is the sheer brilliance of SA to win this one.
154* @ Syndey - The infamous Sydney Test. Every1 knows why we lost.

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:17 GMT

Just a small analysis on Sachin's centuries on losing cause - which earned him the name of "Selfish player". I litteraly dont understand why when a century didnt win/save match, it should be called a useless one.. Hmm.. Just check out this guys. All of Sachin's century in losing cause.(only Tests). No need to mention Onedays, since he was a lone warrior there for many years.
114 @ Perth - Guess I need not explain much abt this match.
122 @ Birmingham - Trailing by 90 odd runs, Sachin made 122 in 3rd innings of the match to take the score to 219. Guess wts next highest score.?? 18 by Manjrekar and only 3 other double digit score all below 20. Target is 121 and England got through..
169 @ Capetown - An Innings which Donald hails as one of the best he has seen.. No other description needed.

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 2:29 GMT

@shilsen.. If u dont feel fair abt the statement "Sachin is only for personal records", then you are really not my Target.:) I want to get reply frm those who feel so.. And for kind info, I love Dravid and he is such a genius.. And so is Sachin and Laxman on their own ways.. Dravid cant do what Sachin and Laxman can do and viceversas also applies. Afterall, they are human and we have to accept this.. My question is why do you want to bring down a master to hail another master when both of them r frm ur land.?? I infact hav answers for all your points.. But, you are not the right person to get those replies.. Also, I should say that I agree with all the points you..(Only with you..:))

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 2:20 GMT

@npadhy007.. Mate.. I didnt say anythin against Dravid.. I respect Dravid as much as I respect Sachin. You have to look into my other posts.. And if you respect Sachin too.. Then its very fine.. I like such ppl who love all our players. My point is. If Dravid/Sachin/Laxman/Dhoni has done anything spectacular, go ahead and hail them. And in doin so, why do you want to write off the reputation of some other player.. the post is just for the sake of argument for the guys who bring down Sachin to hail Dravid. Not meant for you who respect both the legends.. You Jush chill down.. :)

POSTED BY
attoAshok
on | August 22, 2011, 19:03 GMT

@ Karthik Raja: Moreover, Dravid will do anything for the sake of the team. Do you know the famous quote on Dravid about his team-man, "He will walk on broken glass pieces, if his team wants form him". Can you expect this from Sachin? I remember well, when Sachin batted at no. 4 during 2002s in ODIs, he said he wants to bat as an opener. He did well in no. 4 and won matches for India. But still he wants opening, you can guess for what reason? Making record will not do anything for team success, whether it is for Dravid or for Sachin. After all 100 is just a +1 to 99 and -1 to 101, when the team runs are concerned. That is how it should be. Don't make bad comments on a team-man, Dravid.

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 22, 2011, 17:11 GMT

Venu Vinod K S on (August 22 2011, 11:57 AM GMT)

Oh.. and by the way.. you might care to notice that this nightwatchman is outscoring the revered little master...

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 4:06 GMT

@npadhy007 - Eventhough I dont want to comment anythin against you, (since I knw Dravid is the big WALL of India), jus for kind info, Yes.. Dravid performed well in 2003. But not won that match single handedly. He had a big hand in support in laxman and other small contributions in second Innings too.. Indeed it was Agarkar's magic which bowled Aus for less than 200 in second Innings which ultimately won us the match.. And then excuse me.. Did Dravid performed to his potential in the match we won in England in 2007.. I doubt it. (Hope u didnt say this jus coz he was captain) It was Sachin who topscored for India, ofcourse with support frm fellow Indians to win the match.. And again it was Zaheer who won us that match. I have always believed that its bowlers who win us TEST matches.. If you have other matches in list send me those too and you will get a reply why we won those matches..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:54 GMT

And there r few guys here making point that, Dravid kept wickets - Yes, because he is good at that.. And remember, he was not a regular in ODIs till 1999. And it was during that time, he made a stunning comeback to ODIs. And since we lacked a quality keeper-batsman, one of our batsman who is good in that was asked to. and he did that. Its totally upto him to accept it or not. While I agree that it was totally for a Team's cause, I too doubt that in '99 when he reappeared in ODIs, he had any chance/guts to refuse that..It the mistake of BCCI to not search for a WK, since they are comfortable wid Dravid. And as we all know Dravid as a man of soft words, he never questioned it. My point is if a man is doing wt he dont like, it always doesnt mean that he is doing for the sake of others.. He coould hv feared to complaint that too.. Rite.?? And he continued to do that till we found Dhoni.. Jus 4 humour/thought - Why he never practiced to bowl - jus coz he s not gud in that.. Simple..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:36 GMT

@attoAshok: While I agree with that making records will do nothing to Team's success. you have to accept that Team success will not depend on one man's success. Thats wt I want to point out here. U have to agree to that now since DRAVID has failed to do that since he lacked support frm his fellow Teammates. On a assumption that you have finally realized that it is TEAM sport, lemme tell you mate.. Sachin was a make shift opener.. He was made to open jus as an experiment and it clicked.. Again for team's sake he was asked to come down which he did for many seasons. Not only on 2002, but on 1999 WC and latter 2006/07 till '07 WC.. And he was not successful on either occasions.. Of course he scored few centuries. but not as successful as he was in opening slot.. You hail them as match winning innings because he was in middle order then.. Understand mate.. A century frm opener hardly recognized as Match winning one, since he wont be there to finish the match off.. But, still it mean lot..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:22 GMT

100 @ Nagpur against SA - It is Steyn's match. And it should be his.
111* @ Centurion - India couldnt survive the first day on a lively pitch which latter turned out to flat..
Well, I really dont see any fault on Sachin's part on getting those centuries. Only reason could be either other batsmen didnt give enough support. Or the opp played brilliantly. Ofcourse, there might be some infamous TESTs too.. I know/played cricket @ some level and believe me.. No run can be termed as useless. And that too in Test cricket. NOWAYYYYYY..

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:19 GMT

177 @ b'lore against Aus - It was scored in 207 balls.. Indians scored 424 to take lead of 24 runs. In second Innings, all Indians except Sidhu and Sachin failed to reach 30 runs mark. Result - Lost by a superb century by Taylor.
113 @ Wellington - One of the best second Innings century I ever know. Yet, Mcmillan and Cairns brilliance took the game away.
136 @ chenni against Pak - Does any1 have any second thought on this innings
116 @ melbourne in the disastrous tour of Aus'99. In the second innings he scored 52. yet couldnt save the match.
155 @ Bloemfontein - Well. Not really Indians fault to loose this match. This is the sheer brilliance of SA to win this one.
154* @ Syndey - The infamous Sydney Test. Every1 knows why we lost.

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 3:17 GMT

Just a small analysis on Sachin's centuries on losing cause - which earned him the name of "Selfish player". I litteraly dont understand why when a century didnt win/save match, it should be called a useless one.. Hmm.. Just check out this guys. All of Sachin's century in losing cause.(only Tests). No need to mention Onedays, since he was a lone warrior there for many years.
114 @ Perth - Guess I need not explain much abt this match.
122 @ Birmingham - Trailing by 90 odd runs, Sachin made 122 in 3rd innings of the match to take the score to 219. Guess wts next highest score.?? 18 by Manjrekar and only 3 other double digit score all below 20. Target is 121 and England got through..
169 @ Capetown - An Innings which Donald hails as one of the best he has seen.. No other description needed.

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 2:29 GMT

@shilsen.. If u dont feel fair abt the statement "Sachin is only for personal records", then you are really not my Target.:) I want to get reply frm those who feel so.. And for kind info, I love Dravid and he is such a genius.. And so is Sachin and Laxman on their own ways.. Dravid cant do what Sachin and Laxman can do and viceversas also applies. Afterall, they are human and we have to accept this.. My question is why do you want to bring down a master to hail another master when both of them r frm ur land.?? I infact hav answers for all your points.. But, you are not the right person to get those replies.. Also, I should say that I agree with all the points you..(Only with you..:))

POSTED BY
on | August 23, 2011, 2:20 GMT

@npadhy007.. Mate.. I didnt say anythin against Dravid.. I respect Dravid as much as I respect Sachin. You have to look into my other posts.. And if you respect Sachin too.. Then its very fine.. I like such ppl who love all our players. My point is. If Dravid/Sachin/Laxman/Dhoni has done anything spectacular, go ahead and hail them. And in doin so, why do you want to write off the reputation of some other player.. the post is just for the sake of argument for the guys who bring down Sachin to hail Dravid. Not meant for you who respect both the legends.. You Jush chill down.. :)

POSTED BY
attoAshok
on | August 22, 2011, 19:03 GMT

@ Karthik Raja: Moreover, Dravid will do anything for the sake of the team. Do you know the famous quote on Dravid about his team-man, "He will walk on broken glass pieces, if his team wants form him". Can you expect this from Sachin? I remember well, when Sachin batted at no. 4 during 2002s in ODIs, he said he wants to bat as an opener. He did well in no. 4 and won matches for India. But still he wants opening, you can guess for what reason? Making record will not do anything for team success, whether it is for Dravid or for Sachin. After all 100 is just a +1 to 99 and -1 to 101, when the team runs are concerned. That is how it should be. Don't make bad comments on a team-man, Dravid.

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 22, 2011, 17:11 GMT

Venu Vinod K S on (August 22 2011, 11:57 AM GMT)

Oh.. and by the way.. you might care to notice that this nightwatchman is outscoring the revered little master...

I might remind you that this is the same attack that has got rid of your "celebrated" batting line up 8 times in a row... Yes.. we've taken 80 wickets.. whilst your lot have taken 47.. having bowled us out only twice in the 6 times we've needed to bat. The bowling line up which has restricted your batting God to mere mortality... So go ahead and clutch at straws...then go and look at the test tables...

Any port in a storm... If Mishra was your prime hope of survival... it shows how low you've sunk..

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 11:57 GMT

I wonder why can't these new champions almighty english bowlers can't even remove bowler like Mishra! he is nearing his fifty now !

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 22, 2011, 11:42 GMT

Judging by the way India are batting so far on the fifth day, it seems they care more about not dropping to number 3 in the rankings than they did about losing their number 1 status.. More of this application in the previous 3 tests and we might well have had a contest rather than a walkover.

POSTED BY
brittop
on | August 22, 2011, 11:42 GMT

@poorselector: if 50% saw Dravid nick it and 50% didn't, then the 3rd umpire must have been one who saw it. Therefore he gave it out. He couldn't take a straw poll and say because 50% didn't see it, there's doubt, so not out!

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 11:35 GMT

Sachin is great batsman but dravid is a great cricketer who does everything when the team needs... its like how Ian chappel said a story which is - "when don bradman came into bat someone in the commentary said 'here comes the greatest cricketer in the world' but for that an australian alrounder watching the match said 'thats wrong, bradman is the greatest batsman in the world but Gary sobers is the greatest cricketer in the world'.... thats how I see sachin and dravid... India is lucky to have them both.. :)

POSTED BY
shilsen
on | August 22, 2011, 11:11 GMT

@Karhik Raja - Here's your reply. In SA, Sachin wasn't the only person who batted well, though only he scored centuries. Gambhir, for example, crossed 50 thrice in four innings (Sachin did twice in six). The match India won had Sachin do nothing (scores of 13 & 6). When Sachin scored 146 in the 3rd test, Gambhir scored 93 and 64. And the bowlers performed far better there. So Sachin in SA got a lot of support and wasn't the main reason for the 1-1 scoreline (the bowlers were). But in England, it's been utterly one-sided, with Dravid getting basically no support, which is why experienced commentators and crowds alike are calling it Dravid vs. England. And on top of that, Dravid has kept wicket, batted outside his normal position multiple times, carried his bat, etc. while the team has had to be shuffled multiple times so that Sachin can always bat at 4. I don't think it's fair to say Sachin scores only for himself, but when it comes to commitment to the team, Dravid is incomparable.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 11:11 GMT

What is the score of Sachin in this series so far?????

POSTED BY
npadhy007
on | August 22, 2011, 10:44 GMT

mr.karthik raja.....don't dare to say anything about dravid..u might have forgotten that dravid have won several matches single handedly for INDIA...FOR EXAMPLE -Aus series in 2003....ENG series in 2007..& many more....therefore we call him "THE WALL"....AND I respect sachin so i will never comment on him.....MIND UR WORDS BEFORE SAYING ANYTHING TO DRAVID,,,,...

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 10:35 GMT

Oh India! What a modest wish; merely to avoid a whitewash!

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 10:10 GMT

I think we Indians are in the habit of coming to conclusion very soon. We have lost a series very badly . There may be several factors .But we remain no 1 for last two years , won the world cup , we got every thing which we wanted to have in our trophy cabinet , In last series when England toured India india had given them the same madicine which we have received this time when we visited them . But we forgoten that India has lost only three series loss since 1985. Is there any team which has got such a record . I am sure when England will next tour India They will get what they have given to India

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 9:46 GMT

Gavaskar/Hasha and Shastri should check their eyesight, the hot spot was clear on the bat, it was bizarre to listen to their commentary after Dravid's out

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 9:34 GMT

@jugujugua.

If you don't use the (previous) number one team as a "yardstick" then what on earth CAN you use?

POSTED BY
Gazzypops
on | August 22, 2011, 9:27 GMT

Dravid was awesome yesterday (much as he was when I was at Trent Bridge on the 2nd day) but why on earth was he opening the batting in the second innings. Until he was out (and the tech confirmed he was out, chaps: check hot spot in HD...), he'd been on the field for the entire match...! If Swann properly comes to the party today, India will be finished. But that's a big 'if' based on current form.

POSTED BY
BifferSpice
on | August 22, 2011, 9:23 GMT

i love these comments "I will accept england as a the numero uno if they do beat ind, SL in the subcontinent and maybe win against SA in SA". i don't think they care if you do or don't accept them, mate. they are the numero uno, whether you "accept" them or not. deal with it :)

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 9:22 GMT

england worked out a plan for each indian batsman. but it is hard to believe that sachin bat has been silent for 7 innings and this is the 8th. Hope he answers all that software savy england of the srategy they could only develop with a computer aid.

and equally unable to understand lakshman filures. if batsman of his calibre after settling in can get clean bowled some thing is wrong with him.

dhonis and rainas have to learn a lot to stay longer at crease. the team lacked application and will power to stay at the crease.
easy to comment but they themselves know what is their plight facing balls at good length and fiery pace of 145plus hurled at them.

kudos to england and india has only one way from where they are. CATCH UP WITH OTHERS.

POSTED BY
KRISHVJN
on | August 22, 2011, 9:16 GMT

APPEAL FOR IAN BELL'S RUN OUT WAS WITHDRAWN. LIKEWISE APPEAL FOR RAHUL DRAVID'S CATCH ??? SHOULD HAVE BEEN WITHDRAWN IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE THIRD UMPIRE'S GREAT DECISION ???

POSTED BY
mensan
on | August 22, 2011, 8:55 GMT

Its will be first time a world No. 1 team will be whitewashed.

POSTED BY
CricKrazy_AJ
on | August 22, 2011, 8:53 GMT

What happen to team INDIA?? Why they don't have patience to stay at crease?? Now i want to give chance to youngsters in ODI.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 8:48 GMT

Loxwood Cricket Club in West Sussex are looking for a friendly fixture on Sunday 4th September. India? We do pretty good teas which should suit Sehwag, and have short boundaries which might suit Sachin. Our spinner is rubbish, stumpings are bi-annual events and no one remembers when a catch was last taken in the slips. Apart from the odd beamer by Deano, the pace attack holds no surprises and the out fielding is charitable. Most of you would feel right at home.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 8:47 GMT

Indian team members, just like Indian fans, would be mighty relieved after the end of the day's play today! Whether this test ends in a draw or an English win, it wouldn't change the overall series result or the fact that the Indian team has been completely annihilated by the English! Only the ever-dependable Rahul Dravid stands tall amongst the ruins!Other have failed miserably at individual level as well as collectively!

The focus and attention would need to shift to all the forthcoming tours including the one down-under. It would be interesting to see the BCCI response. Though, I am hoping against hope that they would act sanely. Going by the responses, they have already started passing-the-buck game, not ready to be held accountable at all!

The focus needs to be on the 'Process', which the success of English team has shown. Only if the BCCI administrators start believing in creating a well-defined process, things could start looking up. Right now, we are in an abyss!

POSTED BY
pom_don
on | August 22, 2011, 8:22 GMT

BTW if by some fluke Sachin reaches his ton today (& it will be a fluke as he should have been out already) it really doesn't mean a thing if he is on the losing side....cricket is a team sport!

POSTED BY
Jaggadaaku
on | August 22, 2011, 8:21 GMT

These Indian cricketers only get injured whenever they cannot perform well. The previous example was Saurav Ganguly. Once upon a time when he was batting against Zimbabwe, and literally he wasn't making runs despite trying harder, he pretended like he got injured and came back to the pavilion. The coach-Chapple worriedly said to him to show the physio about it, but Dada (Ganguly) said he was alright, no need to show to physio. The coach said if you were alright, then why did you come back? After all, they all are more actors and less cricketers these days. After doing all those stupid advertisements, acting is already went to their vain and mixed with their blood. Sehwag's shoulder surgery already done, and only therefore, he missed WI tour and first couple of tests in this series, then what is this? Mr. Actor(Sehwag), don't throw sand in our eyes. We are not buying whatever you are selling on name of shoulder injury. Sehwag's last 10 innings he passed 50+ just once and got 3 ducks

POSTED BY
BifferSpice
on | August 22, 2011, 8:21 GMT

well, in the spirit of comments left by India's fans throughout this series, I want to agree that if only Gambhir and Sehwag were here, then England wouldn't be so cocky. What's that? Oh. The incredible, magnificent Rahul Dravid has shown what it is to play as part of a team, and his point about not caring about figures and personal landmarks should be listened to by his teammates (tendulkar?) and also the fans. I have seen the comment on here asking for rain rather than another batsman to do well, so that it doesn't overshadow Dravid's contribution. Unbelievable.

POSTED BY
aracer
on | August 22, 2011, 8:14 GMT

@criclover999 - 3rd umpire gave Dravid out on the basis that he nicked it and was caught. Simples.

POSTED BY
pom_don
on | August 22, 2011, 8:09 GMT

@ Karthik Raja & why would or should we argue which player is best, have you not noticed that cricket is a team sport & really who is 'BEST' as you put it in any team is really of little importance the only thing is how the team plays as a whole & works together that is what team sports are all about!

POSTED BY
CricketLover_Ind
on | August 22, 2011, 7:40 GMT

As i have seen the way Mishra played yesterday, i would have sent Mishra to open the innings with Sehwag. That would have given Dravid some time to relax. But now looking at the situation, I think we should get ready to face a white wash. I hope this series would be a great lesson for Indian selectors. Well played England.

POSTED BY
ABRAR-JANJUA
on | August 22, 2011, 7:40 GMT

Congratulation To team India (The world No 1....?) to reach 300 mark eventually....You don't deserve to be No 1 if you only depend on your batting only.If you want to be No ONE you must have good bowling & Fielding side.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 7:06 GMT

Ther is no fight back by the indians, England are top class and completely dominating the indians from all end, i think ther is no challenge left by the indians.. or it is too much cricket that is bothering them.....

POSTED BY
Nikhil_P
on | August 22, 2011, 7:05 GMT

Only rain can save India from losing this match

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 7:02 GMT

I love India and I love cricket.. I love Sachin, Dravid, Laxman, Dhoni, Sehwag.. Its really a great team and we are fortunate enough to see Sachin, Ganguly, Dravid, Laxman playing the same match.. Same way, we could never get a team which has likes of Ponting, Gilly, Langer, Hussey, Warne, Mcgrath.. Now, when they are gone, we still miss thm in international scenes.. Dont we..?? I really do.. eventhough i hated them whn they were winning all over the world.. :) Now, I really miss them.. Same will hold good for current generation of Indian palyers.. So, lets hail them when play itself.. Instead of letting them go and then missing them like we do now in case of Ganguly and Kumble.. Its only due to media pressure(which is indirectly due to we..FANS) they retired.. And we are yet to find a replacement for them in this TEAM.. And now, we need other seniors to go too.. Jus think about it friends.. Enjoy the game.. :)

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:56 GMT

As a few comments suggest, i was also appaled to see Dravid walk out again to open !! It is a well know fact that he doesnt like to open the innings and likes to come one down, why couldnt the 'great' Sachin step up ?? lets see what he does after getting one life.

POSTED BY
poorselector
on | August 22, 2011, 6:53 GMT

@KEVINPP24 - where is consistency, first test -pieterson's nick could be heard 20 miles across still NOTOUT as no hotspot. Then dravid was given out owing to deflection that can be mare trick of eyes as i am sure 50% saw it and 50% didnt. Dont we even have right to comment about it. Anyway both sunny and ravi had only one point - using DRS one should be given out when there is conclusive evidence - if not then its just NOTOUT or original decision. About Dravid not walking - how can he when just a match back he walked to a false nick.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:44 GMT

I've never seen any argument by any English on who is best.?? its KP r BELL..?? Cook r Trot..?? Broad r Bresnan..?? or frm SAffers like.. its Kallis r Devilliers..?? Steyn r Morkel.?? or frm Aus like.. Hussey r Ponting r Watson.?? Or even from our subcontinent bros SL r Pak.. on who is bst among their team.. Ofcourse they do argue on claiming their man/team best than other team/man.. well.. thats understandable.. Bt, its only we, INDIANS celebrating our nearly 65th Independence day still fighting on who is best Sachin r Dravid, Sachin r Dhoni, Sachin r Laxman, east r west, north r south.. Why is it guyz.. Jus think over it.. And if we watch closely, its always Sachin who is compared frm Sehwag to Sreeshanth.. :) Those who crticise Sachin.. Jus a question.. Do you think you have more cricketing knowledge than Lara, Ponting, Don, Viv Richards, Warne, Donald to name a few(not mentioning any Indians here).. All these greats have understood, accepted and appreciated the gr8ness of Sachin..

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:44 GMT

@Spuddinho - remember that india had beaten england at home and away the last two times. I will accept england as a the numero uno if they do beat ind, SL in the subcontinent and maybe win against SA in SA. A single ashes win against Australia and a home series win against a lackadaisical indian team doesnt make them unbeatable. Agreed, that they are number one but they are more 'first among equals' than dominating one (very similar to how india was till now). Its foolish to use India as an yardstick for comparison.

POSTED BY
WIFAN13
on | August 22, 2011, 6:44 GMT

I hope the Indian Team, Board, and Fans learn the following valuable lessons from this trashing they are receiving at the hands of England. Lesson #1. When you are on top, keep watching over your shoulder, in other words stay fit. #2. Take on all comers, regardless of their ranking. Learn from the Aussies-1990's and WI- 1980's, they traveled everywhere and demolished everyone with their best players. They didn't leave them home to get rusty. Even if you don't play them every match, take them on tour. Arrogance will get your team in trouble...like what's happening now. #3. Nothing wrong with asking...er..telling Sachin to open, giving Rahul a rest for the TEAM, stop bowing down to this MAN, he IS only a man. Finally #4. This is specially for the fans, stop the crying and complaining, take loosing like good sportsmen, afterall this is the Gentlemans game.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:30 GMT

guyzz.. just relax.. dravid is a sheer class and so in sachin.. with all due respects to dravid, if he is such a master class, why cant he save/win atleast a single match of this series single handedly.. as u expect frm sachin always.. why is sachin has to do everythin on his own always.. and if he fails, his runs will become meaningless..?? Jus a small recap.. the previous away series where these 2 played was in SA.. where Sachin scored 2 master centuries and dravid was almost a failure(i used the word almost only to save his grace a little).. We drew that series 1-1.. Now, dravid has scored 3 centuries in this series and we are likely to be 4-0 down.. When you guyzz bash sachin for those runs made in SA are just for his personal records, same should hold good for Dravid here too.. Rite..?? I need a reply.. Any1 dare to..??

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:30 GMT

Mr Farooq, I agree with you . Looks like Sachin being the " god " of cricket could be either very inflexiible or not approachable.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:09 GMT

I hope they do save this match, even though I've enjoyed Eng toy with Ind. Sachin has to draw a line and tell the world that he's not over rated. Bat the whole day, show some self respect. let there be no rain...

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:04 GMT

Ravi shasthri wanted to divert the topic of india's poor cricket and he is putting the blame on umpire for giving dravid out... Ravi is still under control of BCCI , now he is bringing up the topic that DRS is not needed and so only BCCI didnt support it... What stupid conclusion is this, the right decision was made , and why bother whether how it is made... Ravi wants to make BCCI look pretty in front of all , then why didnt Ravi speak about scheduling problem and more tour games and IPL problem for India's poor performance , because he cant talk against them , because he wont get MONEY...

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 6:04 GMT

PREDICTION :
This's going to be Mishra's day..I'm sure! Sachin will play the supporting role and might get to his Hundred in the process but Mishra's going to steal the show anyway....didn't you seeee the anger in his eyes when he was out in the first inning. Sources revealed that our Mishra didn't sleep for the whole night as he was recalling all the bad things did to him when he was bowling.

POSTED BY
rahulcricket007
on | August 22, 2011, 5:58 GMT

@1234S . CHECK YOUR STATS MATE OUT OF HIS 35 CENTURIES ONLY 3 HAVE COME IN LOSS ( TWO OF THEM IN THIS SERIES ) .IT CAN BE 4 IF INDIA LOSE THIS MATCH .IN THE REMAINING 31 CENTURIES EITHER INDIA HAVE WON TEST OR DRAWS IT .

POSTED BY
sunnymate
on | August 22, 2011, 5:57 GMT

i got crazy after reading the comments of indians atleast,. WHY U R COMPARING DRAVID WITH SACHIN???????? BOTH ARE OUR PLAYERS. DRAVID IS BEST AND SACHIN IS BEST. SACHIN DOESNT PERFORM IN ONE SERIES. PEOPLE START BLAME HIM HW U GOY FORGOT ABIUT HIS 22 YEARS CARRIER. HOW MUCH PRESURE,EXPECTATIONS, MENTALLY EXHAUSTED. BIUT HE IS STILL PERFORMING. HE IS HUMAN ALSO HE CNAT SCORE IN EVERY MATCH . guys give respect to some who really deserve it. Have some guts and shame before criticize some one who had done extraordinary for india. HE WON SO MANY MATCHES FOR INDIA. THIS IS JUST RUBBISH TALK WHN SACHIN MADE 100 INDIA LOST. BEOFRE THAT CHECK THE STATS. GUYS SUPPORT OUR TEAM CHEERS OFR INDIA ,WE WILL BOUNCE BACK FRO SURE

POSTED BY
Spuddinho
on | August 22, 2011, 5:39 GMT

Gotta be something when India (the supposed best team in world) is praying for rain to avoid a series whitewash - and that after a day's play has already been washed out.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 5:26 GMT

Why Dravid was made to open and not encouraged to rest in the 2nd innings by coming down the order, is beyond me. Let the little master open for a change or come 1 down.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 5:02 GMT

You are great Dravid!!! prefect example for patience. Sehwag u r awesome when u r playing but y r u playing soo foolishly now? u did not do much in the field either? Please!!! Sehwag play sensibly. I have seen pathetic fielding from RP & Laxman. Laxman should learn to use hands to stop the ball not legs. RP is soo stiff, cant run or stop the ball, its selector fault. Sachin, pls play ur best and make it draw.

The ONLY way India saves this game is if Sachin or Dhoni bats for the entire day.

POSTED BY
kevinpp24
on | August 22, 2011, 4:27 GMT

Had Dravid walked off there wouldn't gave been any controversy, but the right decision was made. If an England batsman done that fans would have been on their back accusing, remember when Ponting didn't walk off in Worldcup everybody shouting at him. But nobody now bothers about it. During Eng-Sl series, P.Jayawardene was given caught behind purely by deflection because HotSpot didn't show anything. Umpires are there to give correct decisions and right decision was made. Sl never complained but Indian cry babies Sunny and Ravi, lol. They have been like this even in their playing days.

POSTED BY
Dravid_Pujara_Gravitas
on | August 22, 2011, 4:24 GMT

@ironcobra, you don't have to insult Bell and KP to praise Dravid. Bell is sheer class and KP is one in a million. Bell is more in the rarest or the rare mould of Dravid. All the three are absolutely fantastic players. Yes Bell and KP are young. But it isn't blasphemous to compare them to Dravid. Indian bowling is weak. True. But Bell and KP played well against many different kind of bowling attacks as well. I'm a diehard fan of Dravid and watch test cricket only because of him and some other players. That doesn't mean one should call it blasphemy to compare Bell with Dravid. They both are class acts and KP is a fantastic player with interesting arrogance while playing. Before you write them off, forget that you are an Indian and watch Bell and KP. You'll see what I'm saying.

POSTED BY
Sukumar_Kantri
on | August 22, 2011, 4:04 GMT

Its unlucky to rule Dravid out in the second innings when nothing is clear for Steve Davis. Benefit of doubt should be in batsman favor and Davis absolutely forget that and gave Rahul out. There was huge amount of turn and nothing suggests there would be a nick. Dravid told he tought there might be a nick but not sure. The match could be saved only if Sachin,Dhoni,Raina play significant innings and bat out the whole day... Still India needs 162 runs to avoid innings defeat with 3 top batsmen back in the pavilion. This is not good sign for India....There is 80% chance for Eng to make it 4-0 unless Sach,Dhoni,Raina play superbly or rain saves the match.... Fed up with the way Indians are performing this series....

POSTED BY
NairUSA
on | August 22, 2011, 4:01 GMT

Whew! What a series it has been. Like a roller coaster ride! Ups for England and India always took the downward ride.

POSTED BY
Dravid_Pujara_Gravitas
on | August 22, 2011, 4:00 GMT

Well Dravid was given out, rightly or wrongly. Put your point across and move on folks. What is more shameful is to see Dravid open again. Isn't it a shame that Sachin couldn't say, "hey Rahul. wait a minute bro. let me see what I can do. let me fight it out while you take a shower, put your legs up and get some rest and recharge your batteries". Absolutely pathetic cricket from Dhoni and Sachin.

POSTED BY
dimni
on | August 22, 2011, 3:58 GMT

please god please make this match a draw by raining for the most valuable efforts from the most valuable player of this whole INDIAN squad the great INDIAN WALL if this doesn't happen his great efforts done through the whole series would be for nothing and if someone else score a hundred and the match becomes draw then his efforts will be shared with that guy so please god please this match should be remembered only for DRAVID's great efforts from INDIAN squad apart from the England squad so somehow rain rain come again ...................

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 3:51 GMT

I really cant realize, how some of the indian fans hope for the draw. I think they forget to know that drawing needs to play a full day before all out. The only hope for the draw was if there would have been the GREAT WALL not out. But now with Raina, Dhoni and 25% Gambhir this series is closing to a 4-0 whitewash. I know Tendulkar is there but he will be trying for his 100th 100 not to draw. And most worrying there is no one left to support him (as the Sreesanth foolishly drove with Dravid on the other end.) this is very non-sence. I think India needs to learn some basics before playing anyother test. Very well play Dravid!!! you are the real example for Patience, Class, Comittment and Value.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 3:47 GMT

India could have given Dravid a break before 2nd innings.... Only hope... Now only a slim chance to avoid 4-0 white wash unless Sachin do something spectacular...

POSTED BY
harshthakor
on | August 22, 2011, 3:46 GMT

Dravid has proved that when the chips are down he is arguably the best Indian batsman of all time,overshadowing even Tendulkar.His grammar is perfect and his temperament reminds one of an iceberg.Dravid reminds me of George Headley ,who mostly played the role of the lone crusader and was arguably at his best better than Bradman.Above all Dravid displayed such great humilty when stating that he was not Sunuil Gavaskar's equal as Gavaskar did not use a helmet and combated the greatset paceman of all.

POSTED BY
Dravid_Pujara_Gravitas
on | August 22, 2011, 3:39 GMT

@a1234s, bro, Dravid's career won't end soon unless he decides to call it a day. Wake up man. He has put all his teammates to shame by showing them how to dedicate oneself to team. If he is after records, why would he want to risk by coming as an opener again and again. Look at Sachin. You'll know what I mean.

POSTED BY
venkat_75r
on | August 22, 2011, 3:21 GMT

why there is no comment about Hot Spot failure again? All and sundry were screaming when BCCI and players said that it was not 100%. Where are you now? Agreed. India has played very poorly and lost it's No.1 status. Dravid said in his interview that he thought he had nicked it. He did not say "I nicked it". If the Hotspot says "no edge" then Steve Davis should not have declared Dravid out!!!

POSTED BY
Jaijo
on | August 22, 2011, 3:18 GMT

Good that dravid scored those centuries. If Sachin had scored, then they would have said that wenever sachin scores India will lose.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 3:18 GMT

The oval test is going to be a draw as india still have 3 batsmen left and the maestro at the crease on the last day.I feel that it will be a perfect end for the test series if the master scores the much anticipated 100th ton at the oval.I hope he completes it before lunch n bats remaining two sessions to save the game and pride of india.
With 3-0 drubbing india still be at no.2 in tests with 119 rating points just 5 less of England on the icc rankings.England's testing times are ahead in the longer version as they face SL,RSA and PAK in the near future.So,their top spot will be under tough examination.I feel if they maintain the dominance and ruthlessness shown in this series against the best batting lineup at present it will be a cake walk for them.As being fan of the england test cricket since their victory against oz in the ashes 2005 I wish they do so.All the best england.GO INDIA.

POSTED BY
ecricl
on | August 22, 2011, 3:08 GMT

Hmm if you are good enough to play in test since 1989 (22yeras) as a batsmen then i shud say you score at least 2 century per year, otherwise you cant hold on playing so long that makes 44 century. this is the secrecy of sachins greatness ha ha ha played more than anyone and got more centuries and deluded indians lebel him Bradman!!!!
i saw the list of highest centurians, SRT has played 36 test match more than kallis the 2nd man in list and he is about 11 century behind. Now kallis didnot start at age 16. If he has the time he will make 52 century too and his avg is higher than SRT too with 200+ wicket and guess 100 catch? ------so if kaliis was an indian they wud have placed him above sobers. and since he is not i wonder how many noticed Kallis achievements.

POSTED BY
ecricl
on | August 22, 2011, 2:58 GMT

@ Jay Prakash-
you said Bradman scored century only in 2 countries even then he is called the greatest cricketer (!!!!???). Sir try playing goli cricket with boys half of your age and make an average of 99.96 if you can make it then i will admit bradman was a overestimated cricketer. if it was so easy making 99.6 .....ha ha ha
its not easy making 99.96 ok what ever may be the oppositions class, so you should be rather practical. Rather maing 50+ average is more easier (where SRT hobbles around with other all time greats- who made 50+ avg)

@Hotu Chainani - you clearly didn't watch the right bit of TV - in his interview for C5 highlights he said he was happy with the decision as he had feathered it.

POSTED BY
arvin
on | August 22, 2011, 2:18 GMT

only gods can draw this test for india... be it rain god... or sachin and if sachin is able to draw the test then it will be definetely 100 # 100 and then no cricket knowledge people will be screaming that he was playing for his 100... even here some fools have commented that sachin should not score 100 coz it will outshine dravid effort then... for them praise for dravid is more important then a draw for india...

POSTED BY
shilsen
on | August 22, 2011, 1:43 GMT

@a1234s - Have you actually watched anything of this series? Dravid is the only Indian batsman putting up a fight and, on multiple occasions, trying desperately to dig India out of the rubble created by the others falling apart around him. It has actually been England vs. Dravid (and, to a lesser extent, Praveen Kumar), which is why India is 3-0 down and likely about to lose 4-0. And you think he's playing for records?

POSTED BY
CricketChat
on | August 22, 2011, 1:42 GMT

I hope Sachin doesn't score 100 tomorrow. Otherwise, the match will be remembered for the wrong reason overshadowing RD's commendable effort. I think the match should finish between lunch and tea, thankfully. Cricket is not exciting when it is as one sided as this tour. Time to move on to short formats where Ind might have a glimmer of hope.

POSTED BY
Optic
on | August 22, 2011, 1:41 GMT

@Suresh Lalvani I don't know where you were watching but on my TV Dravid clearly edges the ball onto his pads,it's as plain as day and as far as Snicko not backing it up, your wrong when Sky put it up you could again clearly see when the ball went past the bat, it registered on Snicko, it was faint but clearly there. Why aree you making things up, the whole team around the bat went up for it, Swann included, the umpire turned it down England then reviewed it and as it turned out, Dravid knocked the cover off it.

POSTED BY
Trickstar
on | August 22, 2011, 1:34 GMT

@donovancarragher No way, Broad in those first two tests was unreal, far better than all the others put together, he turned into a cross between, Viv Richards and Glenn McGraph on their best days, practically single handed won England those games. Even in the last 2 test he's been bowling very, very good and some of his spells to Dravid and Sachin have been a joy to watch.

POSTED BY
Trickstar
on | August 22, 2011, 1:28 GMT

@Quazar We didn't need technology to get that one right, the straight on camera showed a deflection onto Dravid's pads then caught, i can't believe people are making a issue of this, though it's par for the course as far as Indians are concerned. If you can't give a player out when there's a visible edge, we may as well pack up and stop playing the game. Dravid even confirmed that he got a edge on it when interviewed after the game, so I think we'll take his word for it.
@Shishir Shrivastava When as this already happened before to Dravid, when he was given out when he hit his lace ends, technology would have saved him but he thought at the time he must have edged it and sachin at the other end thought so as well.

POSTED BY
chishtyirfan
on | August 22, 2011, 1:20 GMT

Bharat Ratna for Rahul Dravid. India's most elegant and valuable player

POSTED BY
vinjoy
on | August 22, 2011, 1:17 GMT

Even when RD carried the bat for 6 hours to score 146*, he was immediately back within 10 min for 2nd innings. The big elephant does not move from number 4 irrespective of whether experience follows him like Ganguly/Laxman, or whether the the lower-middle order is inexperienced as Yuvraj/Raina.... the elephant does not move.
As fate would have it, RD was out in the only possible manner, a poor umpiring decision.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 0:41 GMT

Cant believe the way india performed..anyways true class showed by dravid.
n if talk abt tendulkar,if did nt play in 1 series he is very bad player,he should retire n all that crap ppl say..why so!if anybody say sachin plays for record then y they expect him to play 4 India...why dont they keep their eyes on other player...these same bunsh of ppl talking abt dravid a year ago that he should retire ,he shold give way to new players!!!!Even other gr8est player viv richards,gary sobers,gavaskar,lara(who tok 1 yr off frm cricket then came back) did not played well in the last era of their career!!!!So pls stop blaming on sachin...Even bradman had hit centuries inEngland n Australia only nt in other countries...still he is the gr8est batsman of all tym(as ppl say)!!!!we,in India,if eam is doing gud...players are like GOd..if nt they r like waste!!!Just think like that if ur manager at the work say u that u hv done bad n u r waste,how do u feel!!!!

POSTED BY
AnotherCricketFan
on | August 22, 2011, 0:38 GMT

Nice observation @mensan!

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 0:36 GMT

i don't think india will be able to draw this oval test match. in fact i have a doubt that they would bowled out before the lunch. england must play like a champ and thrash india before tea.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 0:32 GMT

This is a golden year for England. After loosing 3 series in 2001, 2007 and 2008, England is winning first time against India in a decade. Great day! To be fair though, England need to win in India.

POSTED BY
on | August 22, 2011, 0:14 GMT

As it was the last series of Dravid in England he made it large by showing his great excellence batting, Firstly at lords he completed his dream which he couldnot 15 yr back,then at trent bridge now in Oval, showing great performance.
but a little disappointment 4 me and Dravid (Dravid fans) as before series stats shows that only one match lost by Indian team in which Dravid scored century,,,due to poor performance of teammates two more defeat added in these stats.

We wish him good luck....Aqeel Ahmed

POSTED BY
BigDataIsAHoax
on | August 22, 2011, 0:08 GMT

KP and Bell are NO MATCH to Dravid. It's blasphemous to even think of a comparison. They scored big 100s against a pathetic bowling attack. My grand-mom could score double hundreds against this Indian attack!! On the other hand, Dravid scored 3 100s backs to the WALL against the best bowling attack.. wickets falling all around him!! ABSOLUTE CLASS!! Simply Unparalleled!! Even Sachin does not come anywhere close to this guy's resolute defense, technique and unbelievable mental strength. For me, RD is the greatest batsman in modern era!! He is damn old school and that's what matters in "men's" cricket!! I'm not talking t20s and odis here.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 23:43 GMT

This is the last time we will see some magnificent cricketers in England. Dravid, Sachnin and Laxman will not return. Ganguly and Kumble are already gone. They were fantastic cricketers and we were lucky to see them play together and win so many games and take India to No.1. But time waits for no man and on this tour a better team has come out on top. No shame this.

Let's just salute a magnificent bunch for giving us great victories and indelible memories. The losses don't make you any less - you remain true heroes!

POSTED BY
Trioboy
on | August 21, 2011, 23:37 GMT

Everyone was making a big fuss about Sehwag before. Didnt see any significant performance from him so far. Today will be a great opportunity for Little Master to save the game and prove his match winning or saving ability.

POSTED BY
mensan
on | August 21, 2011, 23:26 GMT

I don't expect Tendulkar to save this match. Most of his 100s are useless innings. Tendulkar never scored 500 runs in a series. Even Mudassar Nazar scored 760+ in one series.

POSTED BY
mensan
on | August 21, 2011, 23:22 GMT

Rain may still save india from whitewash. England will have to take all their catches (even half chances) to win this match.

POSTED BY
mensan
on | August 21, 2011, 23:19 GMT

I really commend umpire steve davis on taking a brave decision and ruling dravid out. In a way he taught a lesson to BCCI about UDRS.

POSTED BY
a1234s
on | August 21, 2011, 23:18 GMT

Dravid has become a ad luck for India, like Tendulkar.

Everytime he scores a century, India loses.

Or may be he is just after records now that he knows his career will soon be ending,

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 23:14 GMT

@Down_Under: Rahul Dravid is the only person in the Indian cricket team whose word will be taken by the fielders and umpires. Are you trying to challenge his views just to create some excuse for India? In any case, the great Tendulkar was out first ball but he's still batting out there. So go celebrate his 100th century tomorrow in a gone cause instead of talking about mean umpires.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 23:13 GMT

England Vs Dravid what an immense cricketer forget Tendulkar. Dravid has been on the field everyday of this test and the three previous matches batting, and wicket keeping. It was crazy to ask him to come out and face the music after batting since tea time yesterday. Tendulkar who has opened in ODIs with Shewag should have put himself forward, even if he got a duck it would have shown that he was batting in the team's cause. In the case if Raina, Laxman, Sreshant and Harbajan it has to be thank you and goodbye.'

POSTED BY
Quazar
on | August 21, 2011, 23:10 GMT

@Malret, Nasser Hussain and Bumble were "blabbing" the same thing... there was no HotSpot mark, and Davis should have gone with the on-field call due to (more than) reasonable doubt.

POSTED BY
shilsen
on | August 21, 2011, 23:01 GMT

I'm really disappointed with the Indian team thinktank for sending Dravid in to open again after he'd just carried his bat through the first innings. Not only was that utterly unfair to the one person who's been carrying the entire team on his shoulders throughout the series, but really stupid tactically. India's best hope for survival in the 2nd innings was to bat around another long innings from Dravid, which would be much likelier if he wasn't facing a new ball with the physical and mental tiredness from his first innings.

And if that wasn't bad enough, they again sent in Laxman at 3. While I understand the idea of giving one's best batsman the chance to perform, I'm sick of them sheltering Sachin. In this series, Laxman has looked much better than him, with Dravid miles ahead of them both. After sending Dravid out, the least the thinktank could have done is retain the regular batting order, giving Laxman a chance to come in at a position he's comfortable with.

POSTED BY
5wombats
on | August 21, 2011, 22:52 GMT

Ok - I'm going to be controversial (nothing new!). Dravid has played yet another fine Innings. Well played - hats off. But, and this is NOT TROLLING, this match must not be remembered for being the match where "Rahul Dravid played a brilliant lone hand but failed to prevent the Whitewash....." That would be quite wrong. The brilliant hands have been played by Bell 235, Pietersen 175, but more especially by Englands bowlers. THIS IS A TOTALLY FLAT PITCH - very like those to be found in India. Remember - England scored 591/6 on this pitch and so far india have only scored 429/13. This is due to outstanding bowling. Swann knocking back Sehwags MIDDLE stump was a stunning delivery - which must send shock waves through all indians. Yes, Swann is That Good. He was all over indias top order. Tendulkar should have been out stumped. As for VVS "Englands bowlers are not good enough to run through us" Laxman - I just loved the look on his face as his off stump cartwheeed across the Oval turf.

POSTED BY
Quazar
on | August 21, 2011, 22:50 GMT

@Malret, Nasser Hussain and Bumble were "blabbing" the same thing... there was no HotSpot mark, and Davis should have gone with the on-field call due to (more than) reasonable doubt.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 22:27 GMT

@rahulcricket007 perfectly my point..if the technology was not efficient it had to be a benefit of doubt which is given to the batsman rather than bowler and turning on field's umpire decision when the replays are not too sure...is a big blunder...specially dravid when it has already happened with him and he lone is the difference between or standing between both teams....that was wrong he should not have given out....

POSTED BY
bul98
on | August 21, 2011, 22:17 GMT

Indian team & BCCI should change Future program and only play IPL and Chamions league because most of there player don't wont to play in Int series or they cannot even motivate themselves to Play International fixtures. Look at Gambhir if he can bat at number 9 in 1st ing than why cannot open in second ing oh yes he needs to be fully fit for Champ league and now Sehwag, he cannot bat like he does on FLAT Track so why play in Int ODI's better to hide behind injury and be ready for Champ Leg & IPL. IPL and BCCI Rules but soon that will bring Indian cricket to bottom and that will be the end of BCCI rule over Cricket. It's a cycle enjoy BCCI while you are in the power.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 22:12 GMT

I seriously doubt Andrew MaGlashan's report saying that 'Dravid later admitted to a thin edge'. I haven't seen it reported elsewhere, nor did I see on the television. The 'hot spot' picked up nothing, and there was no conclusive evidence that he had, indeed, nicked the ball. Steve Davis erred in his upturning the original decision, going by the supposed diversion. Small wonder, that India has no faith in the UDRS.

POSTED BY
tom_dick
on | August 21, 2011, 22:10 GMT

Hope at least India will do well in future commitments. Indian team should play the game in true spirits and each player is responsible for bringing glory to the nation. If one player fails due to reasons beyond his control the rest of the players should realise their own responsibility and accordingly play. The down fall of any team rests with all the players collectively. I only request the selectors to choose a team which has all potentials. Youngsters should be trained and a solid base for good cricket framed.

POSTED BY
BullayBaaz
on | August 21, 2011, 21:54 GMT

it has been a shameful series for India, let's face it. With the exception of Rahul Dravid, none of the other batsmen have applied themselves. English bowling is good but to see the likes of Tendulkar, Laxman and Sewag get skittled is strange. Clearly its not about technique or talent with these three. Lack of preparation? too much cricket? too much short form cricket? the pundits will offer many an excuses....

the rest of the team are nothing but a mediocre, 2nd string type of players, when it comes to tests...even Gambhir has been a disappointment...

this has been downright embarrassing being an India team fan...I have seen much punishment...from the seventies...but this is just terrible...and dhoni, what were you thinking sending in dravid to open the follow on when the guy had just carried his bat in the first...I don't think you deserved captaincy at the test level nor a place in the team

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:48 GMT

With Swann finding prodigious turn and bounce, India will have to bat out of their skins to last 3 sessions. Every batsman needs to bat sensibly, and it might require all of Tendulkar's powers to pull them through this. It's not impossible, but it is a tall order.

POSTED BY
landl47
on | August 21, 2011, 21:48 GMT

It's hard to believe that Indian fans are still on here whining about poor decisions when Dravid admitted he nicked it. One camera angle clearly caught the deflection; hot spot was of no use because a faint edge on the side of the bat won't show up on a front view and Cook obscured the side view. Steve Davis got the decision right and moaning about 'benefit of the doubt' is ridiculous. Shastri has no clue what he's talking about. His claim that the fieldsman shouldn't have appealed for a catch off Dravid was ludicrous. There was no question that Bell caught it; the issue was whether Dravid hit it. No-one with a grain of sense has ever suggested that the decision as to whether the batsman hit it should be left to the fielder who caught the ball. Bell was sideways on to the batsman so had no way of seeing any deflection and no way to tell whether the two noises he heard were bat/pad on ball or bat and ball both hitting pad. Shastri has a problem with thinking clearly.

POSTED BY
donovancarragher
on | August 21, 2011, 21:47 GMT

Dravid should be man of the series. Even if England win 4-0, and even though KP and Bell have scored a pair of big hundreds each. Dravid has been on another level to his teammates. As an England fan, I've always admired Dravid from afar. He is a gentleman too. A real class act.

POSTED BY
sidzy
on | August 21, 2011, 21:45 GMT

Since Dravid admitted he edged the ball I would like to recall my dear friend Anil Kumble & say "When ur own players don't walk, so don't give media statements about spirit of the game". Disgrace to indian cricket was kumble's captioncy.

POSTED BY
BigDataIsAHoax
on | August 21, 2011, 21:44 GMT

Great!! if this is how technology is to be used, what is the point? very unfair!! total disgrace !!! Hail Dravid!! they just took u out unfairly cos they r desperate to win!! U r the GREATEST!!

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:42 GMT

First of all ... Very well played Dravid and equally bad performance by India.... I would have loved to see the Great Man (Dravid not SRT) carrying his bat .... Initially I thought India will be able to save the test but I dont think this will happen... SRT might be able to get his 100th 100 but its a shame that India will lose again...

English bowlers are really good with big hearts ... Bowled out India on a flattest of tracks and again three wickets gone ..... I can foresee the demise of the Great No. 1 team (India) sooner then expected.

POSTED BY
Clive_Dunn
on | August 21, 2011, 21:42 GMT

Dravid admitted he edged it, fair play to the man. In all honesty though I thought the evidence wasn't clear and he should have remained. Still, it does the man credit to say he'd got a nick - certainly his immediate reaction suggested he had. I've thoroughly enjoyed watching Dravid bat this summer, especially against spin - his footwork has been as good as I've ever seen anyone. A real shame the rest of the team hasn't supported him in any way.

POSTED BY
Trioboy
on | August 21, 2011, 21:41 GMT

India badly needs a Bangladesh tour ASAP, so they can win some Tests and most importantly God can get his 100. Can't wait to see the next whitewash in Australia.

POSTED BY
BigDataIsAHoax
on | August 21, 2011, 21:38 GMT

Desperate decision to remove Dravid. He was the only guy who cud have saved the game. Atrocious!! What technology!!??Why technology!!!!? This is so CHEAP!

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:37 GMT

Rahul Dravid is a gentleman who avoids controversy. That is why he said he thinks he may have feathered the ball (i.e. a very faint edge). The commentators confirmed that a mark on the bat had been showing all along and not just when the ball passed the bat. Steve Davis was wrong to tell Rod Tucker that he should change his decision and give Dravid out - there was no conclusive evidence for doing that.

TVs umpires need further training and guidance to achieve consistency.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:35 GMT

Before the start of this series....RAvi shastri said "India need to be more careful with their current rankings...otherwise they will loose it in 1 or 2 years..."
Forget about 2 years it just took 2 weeks to dethrone them from the top ranking....

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:32 GMT

well done England,and well played dravid u proved ur self as wall.if there are doubts the technology is there if he admits there is nick so y everyone is talking about it.i wan see a white wash England deserve that

POSTED BY
roonsta53
on | August 21, 2011, 21:26 GMT

people keep whinging about hotspot not showing the edge, thats not actually the case because cook was obstructing the side on view of the bat from the hotspot cam, so there is no evidence to say it definately did not hit the side of the bat. and the replay images did show quite a noticeable edge in slow motion. sometimes i wonder if people who comment on here actually saw the game, or they just want to have a go at umpires to hide the real flaws in their teams performances.

POSTED BY
citizenkc
on | August 21, 2011, 21:21 GMT

It really doesn't matter if Dravid was out or not. His class and temperament are beyond question and what else is beyond question is that the rest of the Indian team has performed deplorably. Sreesanth's disgraceful shot while Dravid was at the other end is perhaps the best example of his teammates not even giving him the minimal of support. The next best batsman in terms of runs is Dhoni!! Only rain can save us tomorrow, and at this point, frankly, I don't care if Sachin reaches a personal landmark.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:21 GMT

India have been destroyed. They are being shown how real bowlers take wickets, how real fielders stop boundaries and take catches and last but certainly not least, how a real batsman bats. So much for Tendulkar being the best batsman in the world, he isn't even up there with averages because an ALLROUNDER in Jacques Kallis has that spot, and where is he at the top of the test batting table? Oh, yeah, NOT at the top. India have been shown the door in this series. I would wager they could lose to Australia in that series. Will be closely fought i'd say.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 21:20 GMT

India ZERO -- Dravid is a HERO :))

POSTED BY
Lahori_Munde
on | August 21, 2011, 21:16 GMT

@CricketingStargazer- Dravid admitted? When? I didn't hear that? He was actually unsure. Whether he edged it or not, the question is for Steve Davis. What evidence did he have to overrule onfield umpire's decision? Technology showed no edge nor any deflection. Hot Spot didn't show ball touching the bat. There was no deflection of the bat in replay. Sneako was inclusive. Then what bases, Steve Davis over ruled the decision?

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 21, 2011, 21:15 GMT

In the case of the Dravid dismissal let's put aside hysterical biased comment based on nothing more than what you see on TV...which is what the programme producer wants you to see... and is not necessarily everything that the third umpire gets to see. He is the person who, with all the avialable technology, has the best view of the whole incident as many times as he wishes... Now ask yourself this question, what earthly reason would he have to give a batsman out unless he was absolutely sure he was out. And finally.. you can whine and moan and shed a million tears... but at the end of the day.. Dravid is out and that is the end of the matter... No amount of useless debate and conjecture will change that. Live with it and move on like Dravid, being the sporting gentleman that he is, has probably done already. It's water under the bridge.. just as Englands failure to appeal for a stumping which would have sent Tendulkar on his way is.

POSTED BY
Trioboy
on | August 21, 2011, 21:14 GMT

India finally make a 300. Ha Ha... Great achievement by India. If God make his 100 Indians will go to sleep happily.

POSTED BY
Jonah58
on | August 21, 2011, 20:35 GMT

Ah I get it, its Steve Davis's fault that India are going to lose this test and face a 4-0 scoreline. I had the benefit of watching the dismissal on a Quality HD set on a HD channel and I saw a deflection, I even saw a feint white mark on the bat on hotspot. So I would say Mr Davis made the right call. I can understand the Indian fans frustration however given that without Dravid this Indian team is a diabolical shambles. Him and PK aside they have zero fitness, zero application and zero interest in being here defending their alleged No1 status. Having watched India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh here in recent series both on Tv and at at least one day live for every series India are the worst test team I have seen in recent years. Even Bangladesh played with pride and put up a fight!

POSTED BY
Dravid_Pujara_Gravitas
on | August 21, 2011, 20:16 GMT

What's this inconsistency while using hotspot? You want to go by what it shows or you don't want to go by what it shows? You can't show some diagonal angles and look for deflections in them and decide that it was out or notout. That decision was overturned without sufficient evidence. There was more than enough doubt in straight on angle and hotspot showed nothing, which also means that benefit of doubt was thrown in the trashcan. That's sad. Dravid might have nicked it. But there was no evidence to show that he did. And we are interested in evidence. Isn't it?

POSTED BY
adhib
on | August 21, 2011, 20:14 GMT

This is genuinly a one-man team aha!

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 20:11 GMT

I think it was really sad to see Rahul Dravid come back to open the inning on follow on. Why can't Sachin open an inning for team's sake? Why is it always Dravid who has to sacrifice? I don't think Indian team really understands the importance of Dravid. Sachin should feel ashamed of himself of not opening the inning and helping Rahul relax a bit.

POSTED BY
phoenixsteve
on | August 21, 2011, 20:10 GMT

At the start of the test series we were told that India are "slow starters". It looks as if that was very true and they now seem to be able to bat a bit? They should be competitive in the next test - right? Oh wait.....

POSTED BY
TRAM
on | August 21, 2011, 20:09 GMT

Yes, I saw the white smear centered at the edge of Dravid's bat. The commentators are too old to watch tv screen and comment. The white spot was not distinct because it was the side surface where the ball hit (hence lower temperature rise), but it coincided perfectly with where the ball hit. Correct 3rd umpire decision. Will these commentators apologize tomorrow for their bad comment about 3rd umpire?

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 20:05 GMT

Without the Wall, the current India Team looks worn out !!! Their body language indicates that they want this series to get over soon. Hope they put up some fight for the ODI's & not a one-sided contest like this. But as an Indian fan - without any doubt - I must say that the England Team Outplayed India in all aspects of the test game. Congrats to them. A lot to learn for MSD & Co.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 20:04 GMT

@Atul Jain, @Suresh Lalvani Dravid himself being the gentleman and all round class act that he is said he feathered the ball but don't let the facts get in the way of your bitterness. He was extraordinarily unlucky to be given out in the last test and again showed his class by not asking for a review because both he and Tendulkar heard a noise, I think we could watch another 2000 tests and never see those circumstances again.

POSTED BY
cricinfo_lover
on | August 21, 2011, 20:00 GMT

We have always been more critical of the failure of Indian batting because of its hype and expectations from having world class players including arguably the best batsman in modern cricket. The bowlers have shown some heart in this series but still the bottom line is that India did not have enough weaponry to dismiss England twice. In fact some bowlers did much better with their bats.

POSTED BY
Lahori_Munde
on | August 21, 2011, 19:58 GMT

"Dravid later admitted to a thin edge." WHAT? I heard Dravid at the end of the day and he said he thought their might be a feather but he wasn't sure. He then added that it was like getting out in the last test where he thought there was a nic that he heard and he walked but it was a noise from Shoe lace.. That mean Steve Davis really blundered and even over ruled evidences from technology...:)

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:58 GMT

I am very happy India losing match

POSTED BY
MartinC
on | August 21, 2011, 19:57 GMT

Dravid was interviewed after the game and confirmed he got a nick on the ball when he was given out. I do agree though that on the evidence the third umpire had it was not conclusive enough to over turn the on field decision.

That could be a key moment in this game - losing Dravid is a huge blow. Can Tendulkar step up and bat for at least two sessions to save the game?

By the way Ghambir needs a rocket. I realise he probably has a headache and no concusion is trivial but he batted in the first innings and should have shown some ticker and opened the innings in the second. It takes mental and physical courage as well as talent to be a world class sportsman.

POSTED BY
Lahori_Munde
on | August 21, 2011, 19:56 GMT

"Dravid later admitted to a thin edge." WHAT? I heard Dravid at the end of the day and he said he thought their might be a nic but he wasn't sure. He then added it was like getting out in the last test where he thought there was a nic that he heard and he walked but it was a noise from Shoe lace.. That mean Steve Davis really blundered and even over ruled evidenced from technology...:)

POSTED BY
CricketingStargazer
on | August 21, 2011, 19:54 GMT

@Atun Jain, (1) Dravid admitted that he edged it, (2) the TV viewes don't get the HD images that the 3d umpie has that showed the edge clearly. Why recall a batsman who was dismissed correctly and fairly?

POSTED BY
Malret
on | August 21, 2011, 19:54 GMT

I thought I saw a small spot on the bat for Dravid's wicket. I was not sure what Shastri, Gavaskar and Bhogle were blabbing about.

POSTED BY
Quazar
on | August 21, 2011, 19:51 GMT

Very well bowled England. Salute to Rahul Dravid! Sadly, Steve Davis ruled incorrectly... how can you overturn the on-field decision when HotSpot says no nick, and the front-on replay shows no deflection. The angle from mid-off indicated potential deflection, but surely the pieces of evidence above meant that the on-field call should have stood. Alas! Anyway, the others have to fight on now.

POSTED BY
Quazar
on | August 21, 2011, 19:50 GMT

Very well bowled England. Salute to Rahul Dravid! Sadly, Steve Davis ruled incorrectly... how can you overturn the on-field decision when HotSpot says no nick, and the front-on replay shows no deflection. The angle from mid-off indicated potential deflection, but surely the pieces of evidence above meant that the on-field call should have stood. Alas! Anyway, the others have to fight on now.

POSTED BY
vasu16
on | August 21, 2011, 19:41 GMT

Dravid was given out when clearly the ball did NOT hit the bat as the hot spot showed. It's a disgrace that in his probably last test innings on English soil came to such an end. If he were still at the crease India would have looked like saving 4-0 white wash. Now chances of India saving the test looks very bleak.

POSTED BY
rahulcricket007
on | August 21, 2011, 19:41 GMT

@deuce03. he removed his helmet to take some fresh air as he sweats much. also my asking point is that when hot spot and later snicko doesn't shows anything . why he was given out by just seeing the deflection . the same case also happens to kp at lords but he was given notout by giving the reason that hot spot doesn't sgow anything. if technology doesn't shows anything you should give him not out . and about the deflection i think you have forgotten that benefit of doubt goes to batsmen not bowler .

POSTED BY
AndyZaltzmannsHair
on | August 21, 2011, 19:37 GMT

What are you guys talking about. The Indian bowlers have regularly chipped in with epic centuries to their names?... what?

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:37 GMT

It was exceedingly bad tactics for Dravid to open the batting in the follow-on. To send their best batsman of the series, who is not an opener, back out on weary 38 year-old legs was NOT best calculated to enable him to bat all day on Monday and make another hundred. Gambir couldn't, because he was injured. Laxman has the wrong technique. Raina is vulnerable to fast bowling. Tendulkar could, but you can understand the Indian team's reluctance to expose him. The Indian bowlers can't bat - no bowling all-rounder like a Broad or a Bresnan, who, in an extremity, could have tried to do a job with some hope of hanging in there for a while. In the absence of any satisfactory option the responsibility lay with the skipper. Dhoni was in duty bound to say, "have a shower and put your feet up, Rahul. Come in at No 5. I'll look after this myself". The fact that he did not, speaks volumes. Kumble would have had his pads on before the 10th wicket had even fallen. But he was made of sterner stuff.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:30 GMT

Where would India be without Dravid this tour? He is the one Indian batsmen, who has kept partial respectibility to Indian's batsmen, scoring all 3 centuries they have scored so far.

Interesting day set up for tomorrow with England on course to complete 4-0 victory

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:28 GMT

Dravid said he thinks he MIGHT have got a feather today at the Oval. Dravid avoids controversy and does not question umpiring decisions. Remember the previous test where Dravid's bat hit his shoe lace and he was given out. Hot spot showed no contact today. Snickometer (not used for decisions) showed no contact. The bowler Swann didn't appeal.The Umpire Rod tucker had ruled it not out. There wasn't conclusive evidence for Steve Davis to ask Rod Tucker to reconsider his decision.
Steve Davis should have given Dravid the benefit of the doubt.

POSTED BY
Joby_George
on | August 21, 2011, 19:28 GMT

This defeat should be dedicated to Sachin tendulkar. For Hell sake, let him complete his 100th ton atleast in this match. Eagerly waiting to see his retirement. Why cant he bat at no.3? India always do experiments on dravid, he is ready to open, to bat at no,3 or even keep the wickets. Sachin should have bat at No.3, by not doing it, he spoiled Laxmans contributions. Sachin plays for records, he dont have the class of lara, ponting, kallis, dravid, sangakara. PLayed cricket for 20 years, any of these mentioned players could acchieve his records if thay also playes for 20 odd years. Whats is special in him? scoring 80 runs in 50 balls and the next 20 runs in 50 balls for scoring centuries and creating records. Shame on u sachin..

POSTED BY
voma
on | August 21, 2011, 19:13 GMT

Finally Graeme Swann comes to the party , its been difficult for him . The Indian batsmen have played him well , scoring against him with ease . Like the Australians really , but swanny has persisted and continued taking wickets . England have the strongest bowling attack in world cricket now . Am looking forward to playing South Africa now

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:12 GMT

Nice article! Very balanced.

POSTED BY
pom_don
on | August 21, 2011, 19:11 GMT

Well done to Dravid for injecting some Indian passion into the game & well done to England again working wonders with the ball, let's face it the wicket is deteriorating but today it was not a minefield especially for the seamers but they stuck to their task so well & Swann created many chances.....a real champions display.

POSTED BY
Stark62
on | August 21, 2011, 19:11 GMT

I made a joke about Indians getting a double century but I have to change it to this:

What's the best way for an Indian (excluding Dravid) to get a century? By bowling! :P

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:08 GMT

i have no words to describe how important dravid is to india. Always genuine, always honourable and always a team player giving 110%. If inida need a wicketkeeper, an opener, the best number 3 in the game, a number 6 batsman, its dravid. He always acrifices himself. India will only realise his importance when he is gone. They go on about sachins records but dravid has won so many more games for india. It is an honour to be at the oval and watch such a superb fight by indias true fighter !! I hope he goes on and on.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:04 GMT

as far as i saw.....the hot spot showed a thin spot in case of dravids out.........

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:02 GMT

The decision of Dravid being given out is very unfortunate..and why can't English Team recall him, showing the spirit of the game, when Hot Spot is not showing any edge.. I want Harsha and Sunil Gavaskar to take this forward..

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 19:02 GMT

All I can conjure with this series in mind is...

Humpty Dumpty and all the Kings Men,
Wanted to all have a battle again.
As Humpty Dumpty sat on The Wall.
Humpty Dumpty could not help but fall.

POSTED BY
xjunda
on | August 21, 2011, 18:59 GMT

But why Laxman again on 3??????

POSTED BY
Deuce03
on | August 21, 2011, 18:50 GMT

Regardless of HotSpot, the normal camera appeared to show a deflection off Dravid's edge. Almost as soon as England asked for the review he started removing his helmet and gloves - he knew he was gone.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 18:47 GMT

Sachin need game with Bangalidesh, Sr-Lanka or Zibabwe to complete his 10th ton! ha ha ha

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 18:46 GMT

nothing left to say ! I hope its buzzing in the indian think tank that they cant just create an impact with their batting unit's names !!

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 21, 2011, 18:46 GMT

First off, I'm a staunch England supporter and I'm delighted at Rahul Dravid's success in this series... Forget The Wall... he should be renamed India's Backbone since he's the only one who's stood up to be counted.. Where have the little master.. VVS, MSD, etc.. been... I read a lot of Indian supporters who say that Tendulkar rarely scores a century when India really needs it. I reckon they might have a point, because they have needed him to do just that on 7 occasions in this series and he's failed every time. We'll see what tomorrow brings... but even if he gets his 100th 100, then it will be of little worth to India and will be further evidence that he bats for himslef... not the team.

POSTED BY
Toronto_Craze
on | August 21, 2011, 18:40 GMT

If Sachin Tendulkar does not score a century but saves the match to a draw, then I will consider it as a great achievement. But Sachin hits a century and India lost the match, then another worthless run making by the greatest batsman of India only.

POSTED BY
hhillbumper
on | August 21, 2011, 18:37 GMT

Fair play to Dravid.He just batted and batted and is certainly the best Indian batsman of his generation.Forget Tendulkar what will happen when Dravid goes. Certainly the best batsman of this very poor team.Where would they be without him.

POSTED BY
Front-Foot-Lunge
on | August 21, 2011, 18:37 GMT

Remember that We've lost almost 2 days of the match to rain and even then England look able to force a win on a flat pitch. England played well, Dravid was India's only hope as has been the case throughout the series.

POSTED BY
cricinfo_lover
on | August 21, 2011, 18:34 GMT

What a display from Dravid... A true class test batsmanship when people were falling around him like nine pins. It has been a shocking display from the so called No.1 batting line up so far in this series. One of the worst I have seen in recent times. A white wash will truly be a disaster for India who came into the series as the top test team. Everything relies on Sachin tomorrow.

POSTED BY
bumsonseats
on | August 21, 2011, 18:32 GMT

seems dravids feather did not show up on revue. show the style of the man on interview on sky said he had touched it. dpk

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 18:32 GMT

Poor India...even a listless Pakistan team were able to beat England in a test in 2010 when the series was alive...

POSTED BY
cyniket
on | August 21, 2011, 18:21 GMT

what a pleasure it's been to see dravid bat during this series. he has elegance, determination and enormous skill, he also appears to be a very humble man. It's a shame that it's probably the last we'll see of him in a test match here. I wouldn't mind if india got a draw out of this one, i think england have inflicted enough pain, I don't think anyone would begrudge tendulkar a hundred on his last visit here.

POSTED BY
rahulcricket007
on | August 21, 2011, 18:17 GMT

ENGLAND ON TOP AND DRAVID REMAINS NOT OUT IN WHOLE MATCH.

No featured comments at the moment.

POSTED BY
rahulcricket007
on | August 21, 2011, 18:17 GMT

ENGLAND ON TOP AND DRAVID REMAINS NOT OUT IN WHOLE MATCH.

POSTED BY
cyniket
on | August 21, 2011, 18:21 GMT

what a pleasure it's been to see dravid bat during this series. he has elegance, determination and enormous skill, he also appears to be a very humble man. It's a shame that it's probably the last we'll see of him in a test match here. I wouldn't mind if india got a draw out of this one, i think england have inflicted enough pain, I don't think anyone would begrudge tendulkar a hundred on his last visit here.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 18:32 GMT

Poor India...even a listless Pakistan team were able to beat England in a test in 2010 when the series was alive...

POSTED BY
bumsonseats
on | August 21, 2011, 18:32 GMT

seems dravids feather did not show up on revue. show the style of the man on interview on sky said he had touched it. dpk

POSTED BY
cricinfo_lover
on | August 21, 2011, 18:34 GMT

What a display from Dravid... A true class test batsmanship when people were falling around him like nine pins. It has been a shocking display from the so called No.1 batting line up so far in this series. One of the worst I have seen in recent times. A white wash will truly be a disaster for India who came into the series as the top test team. Everything relies on Sachin tomorrow.

POSTED BY
Front-Foot-Lunge
on | August 21, 2011, 18:37 GMT

Remember that We've lost almost 2 days of the match to rain and even then England look able to force a win on a flat pitch. England played well, Dravid was India's only hope as has been the case throughout the series.

POSTED BY
hhillbumper
on | August 21, 2011, 18:37 GMT

Fair play to Dravid.He just batted and batted and is certainly the best Indian batsman of his generation.Forget Tendulkar what will happen when Dravid goes. Certainly the best batsman of this very poor team.Where would they be without him.

POSTED BY
Toronto_Craze
on | August 21, 2011, 18:40 GMT

If Sachin Tendulkar does not score a century but saves the match to a draw, then I will consider it as a great achievement. But Sachin hits a century and India lost the match, then another worthless run making by the greatest batsman of India only.

POSTED BY
bobmartin
on | August 21, 2011, 18:46 GMT

First off, I'm a staunch England supporter and I'm delighted at Rahul Dravid's success in this series... Forget The Wall... he should be renamed India's Backbone since he's the only one who's stood up to be counted.. Where have the little master.. VVS, MSD, etc.. been... I read a lot of Indian supporters who say that Tendulkar rarely scores a century when India really needs it. I reckon they might have a point, because they have needed him to do just that on 7 occasions in this series and he's failed every time. We'll see what tomorrow brings... but even if he gets his 100th 100, then it will be of little worth to India and will be further evidence that he bats for himslef... not the team.

POSTED BY
on | August 21, 2011, 18:46 GMT

nothing left to say ! I hope its buzzing in the indian think tank that they cant just create an impact with their batting unit's names !!